Texarkana, Arkansas, is far more than just a catchy name. There’s something for everyone in this charming town, from a museum to outdoor activities.
Curious? Keep reading to find out where in the world Texarkana is and what it has to offer visitors. And we also reveal if it’s worth a visit.
Let’s dig in!
Where Is Texarkana, Arkansas?
Texarkana, Arkansas, is on the southwest border of the state. It shares a border with its twin city, Texarkana, Texas. Thus the name, Texarkana.
The city also rests between the borders of Oklahoma and Louisiana. Sitting at the crossroads of four states, I-30 and I-49 intersect here. This makes for a lot of traffic flow through this small, unassuming city.
What Is Texarkana Known For?
Texarkana is known for its historic courthouse and post office that straddles the state line of Arkansas and Texas. It’s ranked as the second most photographed federal courthouse in the U.S. The city is also well-known for the Four States Auto Museum that people from near and far travel here to visit.
7 Best Things to Do in Texarkana, Arkansas
Texarkana, Arkansas, has some notable attractions whether you’re visiting for a while or just passing through. Check out seven of the best things to do in the border city.
1. Visit the Four States Auto Museum
The Four States Auto Museum is one of the most popular attractions in Texarkana. It’s a non-profit organization that exists to preserve, collect, and exhibit automobiles, transportation equipment, and historical artifacts related to the auto industry. The museum also restores equipment and provides educational and recreational experiences. You can find upcoming events on its website.
The museum has a collection of classic cars on display across nearly every era of the automotive industry. It’s often acclaimed as a hidden gem. You can keep up to date with the events and cars on display on its Facebook page.
2. Experience Holiday Springs Water Park
Holiday Springs Water Park is a fun place to cool off in the hot summer months in Texarkana. The water park has water slides, a wave pool, a lazy river, beach volleyball, concessions, and more.
The park is open from late spring through early fall. You can purchase single day or season passes if you plan to go more than once during your time in Texarkana, Arkansas.
3. Explore Spring Lake Park
Spring Lake Park has trails, 18 holes of disc golf, and places to picnic and relax. It’s an excellent place to stop on your way through Texarkana or to enjoy an afternoon after visiting a museum.
The park has a lake, fishing piers, and open green spaces. And there’s a 1.75-mile walk or bike trail that takes you through the park. You also have a chance to watch a baseball game on one of the park’s fields. In addition, Spring Lake Park has a splash pad and dog park.
Traveler’s Tip: The town of Hot Springs, AR, is less than two hours drive from Texarkana where you can explore Hot Springs National Park.
4. Go to Ace of Clubs House
Ace of Clubs House is a historic home built in 1885. The unique Italianate Victorian-style house is the oldest standing house on the Texas side of Texarkana and was initially owned by the Draughon-Moore family. Three generations of their families lived in the house from 1894 to 1985. And in 1985, Olivia Smith Moore, the home’s last owner, deeded it to the Texarkana Museums System through her will.
It opened to the public in 1988. Inside, you’ll find a collection of the families’ furnishings and personal belongings. They offer guided tours every day, except for Mondays when they’re closed.
5. Visit the Regional Arts Center
You can visit the art galleries in the Texarkana Regional Arts Center free of charge. There are art exhibits inside and outside, and the center hosts regular events, including theater for kids. The pieces you’ll find here are from local and national artists. The center is in downtown Texarkana, Arkansas, and it’s open Wednesday through Saturday.
6. Spend an Afternoon at Bringle Lake Park West
Spend an afternoon at Bringle Lake Park West on your next visit to Texarkana. The seven-acre park features a lake and has a boat ramp, trails, a boardwalk on the lake, and a playground.
You can also fish from one of the two piers in the park, use the exercise equipment station, enjoy sand volleyball courts, or set up a picnic in the pavilion that overlooks the lake.
7. See the Historic P.J. Ahern Home
The P.J. Ahern Home is another historic house in Texarkana that’s open to the public. You can take a guided tour from Tuesday to Sunday. The home is in Classical Revival style. The Burdsal Company designed it for the Aherns. Today, the four-bedroom house is part of the National Register of Historic Places.
Is Texarkana Worth Visiting?
Texarkana, Arkansas, is worth a stop for a day or two. We highly recommend working your way through the attractions on our list. The small border city may surprise you!
Let us know when you make your way through Texarkana. We would love to hear about your experiences or new activities you would add to the list.
